Good News! Enrollment for Primary Schools in Ethiopia is on the rise, this past year the Konjo Kids Foundation was able to help over 30 students receive the supplies necessary to attend school in Ethiopia. This would not have been possible without the love and donations from you, our supporters. Please remember to pray for the children around the world as you celebrate with your friends and families this holiday season. With your continued support we will make a difference in the lives of these special children.

A Holiday Reminder

Americans will spend over 400 billion dollars shopping for gifts this holiday season alone. The money spent on these gifts could literally change the world by putting a severe dent in the struggle to end poverty. There are numerous charitable organizations all over this world meeting the essential needs of people. These organizations are helping to provide clean water, food, clothing, shelter, medical help and educational assistance to those who desperately need it most. Many operate on a volunteer basis and provide opportunities for you to donate your time and skills to those in need. Also, they rely on end of year donations which help provide the funds to continue services for another year. So when you're struggling with finding the "right" gift for the person who has everything, consider making a financial gift this holiday season to an organization who really needs it!. Happy Holidays and Blessings to all!

SEASON OF GIVING?

The "season of giving" has arrived like clockwork once again. This excitement of buying has become a treasured American tradition. We visit stores and become overwhelmed with all the excessive trees, lights and decorations. Toys and insignificant items are stacked in the aisles anxiously waiting for a new home. Useless trinkets are given grudingly. It is estimated over 34 million trees are cut down each year specifically for Christmas. The spirit of Christ has been left out of Christmas once again.

Stress and anxiety is raised at this time of year with the pressure and demand of buying gifts in a bad economy. World hunger is still a severe problem affecting over 870 million people. Yet, in the midst of all the violence you still see shopping carts filled with boxes and boxes. Statistics show the top selling games are the most violent. Sales of demonic looking dolls are starting to rise. Prayer is no longer allowed in public schools while mothers and fathers work long hours trying to provide their children with all their needs and wants. Families are definitely strained. Lack of community involvement has put a divider in neighborhoods throughout our nation.

 

 

 

The lack of God in our society has produced violence. We must return to a time where we care for our neighbors just as we care for ourselves. Instill these principles in our young so they too will carry these traditions on. We are responsible for our earth, its contents and its dwellers. Remember Christmas is the celebration of the Messiah. We must not forget about those less fortunate than us. No matter your situation, it can always be worse. The world is full of individuals who are impoverished. If you cannot afford to donate money, you can always donate your time, your talent or something else non-monetary. Let humanity be your religion.

 

2012 Winding Down...

With the Mayan calendar predicting an apocalypse in December of this year, 2012 has definitely proven itself (so far) to show some world changing events. Things that many have stated would never happen.  Things that many say are definitely signs of the end. Things that many agree will produce a rebirth.

 

 

Senseless acts of violence including deadly shootings in schools, a movie theater and places of worship. Attacks on US embassies around the world. Outbreaks of West Nile, Ebola and Meningitis, the war in Syria, massive hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, tsunamis and floods. The overturn and legalization of gay marriages. The embarrassing firing of US Secret Service agents.  The rising number of individuals killed due to war.

 

The deadly plane crashes in Nigeria, Nepal, Indonesia, Pakistan and Russia. All the (un)employment and housing talks. The Rover landing on Mars, Facebook going public. The passing of "Obama Care" and the ones who think we don't "deserve" health care. The new election of many world leaders. The falling and death of world leaders. US politicians putting their foot in their mouths. One thousand species of animals all over the world in danger of extinction. The roller coaster of gas prices and the playground strike of NFL referees. Polluted air still a major health hazard in many countries. Record breaking temperatures reached throughout the world. Not to mention another history making Presidential election here in the US.

This mass of global acts has definitely landed 2012 in the books. In the midst of it all; our international goals cannot be ignored. We must remember to continue to help on this earth. Let us not forget the 153,000,000 orphans in the world. Our children are dying from lack of food and medical care. Over 1 billion people in the world do not even have access to safe drinking water. It shames me to live in a world where children are walking around naked, hungry and sick - and others are spending several hundreds of dollars on fancy phones. Did you know the cost of an Iphone 5 will allow one girl in Africa to attend high school for one year? Many parents in the US will spend that amount for one school outfit! What you spend on one cup of coffee will feed one child for an entire day in India!

 

When will the time come for us to teach our children that humanity, not luxury is the way. With all the food shortages and recalls we must learn to do with less. Grow more of our own food and support our local farmers. Volunteer in your community. Give money to world organizations. Donate food and clothing to local charities. Remember to recycle. Plant trees, herbs and flowers. Preserve energy. Help one another. Smile and say hello. Spread peace. Spread love. Those who receive love will give love, it really is that simple.

One thing is for sure - Major cosmic developments and spiritual enlightenments will take place. The only question is will your eyes be open to see the vision? Will your ears be tuned in to hear sounds? Will your heart be open to receive...?



“Everybody thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing themselves.”
― Leo Tolstoy

The International Children's Festival


Selamta! For the first time, the country of Ethiopia will be represented at the International Children's Festival in Hampton Virginia. The 12th annual festival will take place on Saturday, April 21, 2012 at Mill Creek Park in downtown Hampton. Admission is free! The event will take place from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Over 35 countries from all around the world will have representatives present. 


The Konjo Kids Foundation is excited to be a part of this amazing event. Each country will have a personalized booth that will feature educational exhibits. Children will have the opportunity to make crafts and souvenirs from each country present. Families will also be able to experience international foods, sports and entertainment. Also, don't miss the  International Parade! What a treat these families will have being allowed to visit these countries in their own backyard.